Abstract
PURPOSE: CSMed(®) wound dressing, a dressing with various herb extracts, was tested for its therapeutic effect in radiation dermatitis of breast and head-and-neck cancer patients. METHODS: This study included 20 breast cancer patients and 10 head-and-neck cancer patients. Half of the irradiated area was covered with CSMed(®) and the other half was under routine treatment. The severity of radiation dermatitis was evaluated with radiation therapy oncology group (RTOG) grade throughout the treatment and the follow-up period. The RTOG grade between the dressed and undressed area were compared to illustrate the therapeutic effect of CSMed(®) dressing. RESULTS: The results showed that CSMed(®) dressed area had significant lower RTOG score at 3-7 weeks and final record during the treatment, and 1-3 weeks during follow-up than undressed area. CONCLUSIONS: This indicated that CSMed(®) can delay the onset, reduce the severity, and enhance healing of radiation dermatitis. CSMed(®) can be used for prophylaxis and management of radiation dermatitis.